Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed that João Cancelo is set to complete his return to the club, revealing that the Portuguese defender will sign his contract this weekend following his medical check-up. Laporta also hailed sporting director Deco for finalising the deal, calling it another success in a challenging transfer market. With Cancelo back at Camp Nou, attention has now turned to how Barcelona could line up with his inclusion in the starting XI.
According to a projected lineup shared by Barça-focused outlets, the Blaugrana defence could see a clear structure built around youth and versatility. Alejandro Balde is expected to start at left-back, offering pace and width down the flank. In central defence, teenage sensation Pau Cubarsí could partner Jules Koundé, combining composure on the ball with defensive solidity. Cancelo would slot in at right-back, a role that allows him to influence both defence and attack.
Behind the back four, Eric García is tipped to operate in a deeper role, either as a defensive midfielder dropping between the centre-backs or as a hybrid centre-back during build-up. This setup would allow Cancelo to push higher up the pitch, often drifting into midfield or advanced wide areas, a tactical trait that adds unpredictability to Barça’s play.
